What Net Worth Should You Aim for at Retirement?
As you approach retirement, understanding your net worth becomes crucial. Your net worth, a key indicator of financial preparedness, shows the wealth you’ve accumulated to support yourself post-retirement. Factors like income and gender influence net worth, but age is a significant determinant. Generally, your net worth increases with age. Knowing your net worth compared to averages helps you assess if you’re on track for retirement. Consult a financial advisor for personalized guidance on reaching your net worth goals.
Net Worth Basics
Your net worth is your assets minus liabilities. Assets include retirement accounts, home equity, savings, and investments. Liabilities are debts like mortgages, credit cards, and loans. To calculate, add up asset values and total debt balances, then subtract debts from assets.
Tracking Your Net Worth
Tracking net worth over time indicates financial progress. A higher net worth means more assets supporting you, while a lower one suggests a need to reduce debts or increase savings. Checking annually or after major life events helps you adjust if needed.
Net Worth and Retirement
Your net worth matters in retirement for supporting your lifestyle. In retirement, while you stop earning income, expenses like housing, food, and healthcare continue. Net worth provides income through withdrawals, investment earnings, and downsizing proceeds.
Typical Net Worth at Retirement
Median and average net worth figures vary by age. Net worth tends to decline after age 75, possibly due to spending on living expenses. Factors like gender also influence net worth, with men generally having higher balances than women.
Interpreting Your Figures
While averages provide reference points, your target net worth depends on your situation. A shortfall in current net worth might not be concerning if you expect future windfalls. If you’re well above average, consider opportunities to retire earlier or budget bigger.
Boosting Net Worth
To increase net worth, focus on boosting assets and reducing debts. Contribute to retirement plans, open an IRA if needed, and pay down high-interest debts first.
Bottom Line
Monitoring your net worth near retirement is vital. Compare to benchmarks but understand your individual situation before taking action. Average net worth figures can be misleading, so consider median figures for a more accurate assessment.
Retirement Planning Tips
If unsure about your net worth’s adequacy, consult a financial advisor. SmartAsset’s tool matches you with vetted advisors, helping you find the right one for your needs. Start planning now to secure your financial future in retirement.
